Charles P. "Chuck" Hansen's Obituary
Charles P. “Chuck” Hansen, age 85, passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 7, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on October 21, 1939, to James and Marie (Miller) Hansen in Lansing, MI, and soon after, the family settled in Muskegon. Chuck graduated from Muskegon Heights High School, Class of 1958, and went on to earn his bachelor’s degree from Concordia College in Moorhead, Minnesota. Chuck worked for many years in the family business at Hansen’s Drive-In, Burger King and El Royal, where he built a strong reputation in the restaurant industry. He later embarked on a second career as a self-employed truck driver, dedicating another 40 years to the road with the same passion and work ethic. On July 9, 1979, Chuck married Mary Stoddard and together they shared 46 years filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. Chuck was a proud member of the morning “breakfast club” at Herbie’s, where stories flowed as freely as the coffee. He loved cruising down to Pere Marquette, soaking up the sun by the lakeshore, and never missed a chance to try his luck at the casino. A loyal fan of the Detroit Tigers and Lions, he never gave up hope for the next big win. Chuck will be remembered for his incredible work ethic, vibrant storytelling, and his natural gift of conversation that made everyone feel like a friend. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. He is survived by his wife, Mary Hansen; five children, Paul (Rhonda) Hansen, Mark (Nancy) Hansen, Brenda (David Porter) Hansen, Rebecca Hansen and Patrick (LouAnn) Hansen; nine grandchildren, Stephan Hansen, William (Sarah) Hansen, Dustin Kolberg, Alexandra (Eddie Salinas) Hansen, Andrew (Tonya) Tufts, Michelle (Chet Coleman) Alvarez, and Hunter, Kennedy and Shelbie Porter; numerous great and great-great-grandchildren; two brothers, Robert (Janis) Hansen and Bruce Hansen; mother of Paul and Mark, Janet (Mike Ernst) Hansen; cherished family friend, Billy (Monica) Smith; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; and sister, Lana (Ron) Kolkema. A Celebration of Chuck’s Life will be held at 3:00 PM on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444, with visitation one-hour prior. Memorial Contributions in his honor can be directed to Mary Free Bed Junior Wheelchair Sports Camp. Share memories with the family at https://www.sytsemafh.com.
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